Preface I see you have decided to pick up my book. Perhaps even as a choice made in an earnest attempt at learning, or maybe it was forced upon you as part of an unnecessarily oversized curriculum. Regardless of the reason, I shall endeavour to entertain you, my dear reader; insofar as my life story can entertain. There’s quite a bit of tragedy involved, you see. I was not always the regal figure you surely know from history, nor was I as strong as I am now. Believe it or not, there was a time where I didn’t even know of Potential. I am from common stock, you see, despite what my Father’s family would have you believe. They never lifted a finger during my upbringing or my struggles. You might notice that I write in the present tense, despite these events taking place decades ago. There is a good reason for this. As is common amongst mages of my stature, I have Perfect Recall, which allows for vivid recollection. And as such, I find it simpler, and more honest, to simply transcribe my memories as I relive them. Also, word of warning, before you read on. I refuse the editing of this text. If you find it “rambly”, then it is intentional. The goal of this little autobiography is to let you get to know who I am. Not the Mage King, or the Successor of Potential, or any other such pretentious title. If I find a need for more structure, I will provide it. Rambling is a part of me. An epic fantasy following Bástynn as he journeys through life, eventually becoming a powerful mage whose decisions shake nations and change the lives of millions. First he has to deal with his trauma and crippling social anxiety though.